puppy

noun

pup·​py ˈpə-pē How to pronounce puppy (audio)
plural puppies
Synonyms of puppynext
1
: a young domestic dog
specifically : one less than a year old
2
: baby sense 4
a computer that is one fast puppy
puppyhood
ˈpə-pē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce puppy (audio)
noun
puppyish
ˈpə-pē-ish How to pronounce puppy (audio)
adjective
puppylike
ˈpə-pē-ˌlīk How to pronounce puppy (audio)
adjective

Examples of puppy in a Sentence

Our dog just had four puppies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The puppies for the next visit may be different. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 25 June 2026 The plane doubles as a playset and airship and features more than 15 pieces, including a puppy companion. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 25 June 2026 The tool is made from BPA-free, flexible silicone and comes in adorable puppy and teddy bear shapes to add a whimsical touch to your drawer. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 Roughly 20 pedigree puppies are born annually. — ABC News, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for puppy

Word History

Etymology

Middle English popi, from Middle French poupée doll, toy, from *poupe

First Known Use

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of puppy was in 1567

Phrases Containing puppy

Rhymes for puppy

See All Rhymes for puppy

Browse Nearby Words

Puppis
puppy
puppy dog
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Puppy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/puppy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

puppy

noun
pup·​py ˈpəp-ē How to pronounce puppy (audio)
plural puppies
: a young domestic dog
especially : one less than a year old

More from Merriam-Webster on puppy

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for puppy

Nglish: Translation of puppy for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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